Dog versus cat bites

The answer is A, a cat bite is more infectious.

As it turns out, dog bites may be more common, but they're less infectious. Up to 20 percent of dog bites are infectious, while 50 percent or more of the bites from cats result in infection.

Why the difference? In part because cat teeth are small and sharp, and therefore more likely to penetrate deeply.

Children and the elderly are more susceptible to infections from cat bites, as are those who have diabetes, HIV, or who are receiving cancer or other treatments that affect the immune system. However, it's recommended that anyone bitten by a cat contact their doctor.

Which isn't to say dog bites aren't serious. With any animal bite that breaks the skin, contact your doctor. In the meantime, wash the wound with soap and water, apply pressure with a clean cloth to stop any bleeding, and put on a sterile bandage.